French Traditions All Expats Should Know

French Traditions You Should Know: Holidays, Customs, and Etiquette

Hello everyone! Welcome back to the blog. Today we are diving into some classic French holidays, celebrations, customs and etiquette that will help you feel more at home in France!

Moving to France can be exciting and at the same time nerve-wracking, but understanding French traditions is key to settling in. From holidays to daily social etiquette, here are some essential aspects of French culture that will help you integrate smoothly.

Key French Holidays

France is known for its lively national celebrations. Bastille Day, for example, is celebrated on July 14th and marks a key event in French history: the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789. This act signalled the start of the French Revolution and the fight for liberty, equality, and fraternity, which are the founding values of the French Republic.

The day is celebrated nationwide, with the biggest event being the military parade down the Champs-Élysées in Paris. This is followed by fireworks, often with the Eiffel Tower as the backdrop. Festivities include street parties, concerts, and picnics, where the French gather to celebrate their national pride.

Another important holiday is La Fête de la Musique, which takes place every June 21st. Cities across France host outdoor concerts to celebrate music.

Christmas and New Year’s are also significant in France. Christmas Day is a quiet family time, while New Year’s Eve, or La Saint-Sylvestre, is a lively celebration. People gather for a festive meal, known as le Réveillon, and toast with Champagne at midnight

French Customs and Etiquette

France values politeness and proper etiquette. To greet someone, always say “bonjour” or “bonsoir,” depending on the time of day. Forgetting this simple greeting can be considered rude. Among friends, the bise, or cheek kiss, is common. The number of kisses can vary by region.

When dining, there are a few unwritten rules to follow. French meals are an important part of life. Avoid discussing work during dinner. Wait for the host to say “Bon appétit” before starting your meal. Also, keep your hands on the table, not in your lap, while eating.

Embracing the French Lifestyle

Adapting to French customs will make your experience richer. Understanding local traditions, like the importance of work-life balance, will help you feel more at home. Socializing in cafés is also a big part of daily life.

By embracing these traditions, you’ll avoid social faux pas and blend into the French way of life faster. Living like the locals will make your time in France even more enjoyable.

We hope you found this article useful. Be sure to check out some of our other blogs here!:

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https://absolutely-french.eu/the-best-markets-in-paris/

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